FDA Recalls Dole Blueberries After Possible Parasite Contamination

The FDA is recalling some shipments of Dole blueberries because parasites may have contaminated them.

The United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has sent out a statement about a recall of Dole Fresh blueberries due to a possible cyclospora parasite contamination.

“Dole Diversified North America, Inc. is coordinating closely with regulatory officials,” the FDA stated in its announcement. “No illnesses have been reported to date in association with the recall.” The FDA warns consumers not to eat the blueberries and throw them away as soon as possible, saying the berries could cause an intestinal infection called Cyclosporiasis.

The recalled berries were packed between May 28 and June 9, Yahoo! Entertainment reports. And they were sent out to Illinois, Maine, New York, and Wisconsin.

“A person may become infected after ingesting contaminated food or water,” the announcement reads, according to Yahoo! Entertainment. “Common symptoms include severe abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, body aches, and fatigue. The infection is treated with antibiotics, and most people respond quickly to treatment.

“Most people who have healthy immune systems will recover without treatment. If not treated, the illness may last for a few days to a month or longer. Symptoms may seem to go away and then return one or more times (relapse),” the CDC added in its statement. “People who are in poor health or who have weakened immune systems may be at higher risk for severe or prolonged illness.